Rider Stories
Each day at CTRC we are blessed with wonderful stories. Stories of courage, of perseverance, of humor, of commitment, of wonder, the list go on and on. We at CTRC treasure our stories. We believe they are precious gifts and that any one who hears our stories can not help but be moved - and be bettered by them.
Here are a few precious gifts for you. May they brighten your day…..
TEAM HESSLER - making strides
The strength of CTRC lies in the power of our
teams of volunteers, riders, horses and instructors
working together. John’s team
is a brilliant example of that power.
As the former CU Buffs quarterback,
John has long known the importance
of teamwork. In 2003, John
was the victim of a near fatal hit and
run car accident that left him in a
coma for 33 days and in need of
intense hospital care for six months.
With a traumatic brain injury and
severely compromised mobility,
John had lost belief in himself and
held a bleak view of his future.
Last winter, John came to CTRC hoping to build
strength, improve balance, increase confidence
and regain hope - and he found a
new team. “Head Coach Justine” is
John’s instructor. The front line -
volunteers Gary, Marc, Helen and
Frank - are team mates John can
truly count on. And “Sweet Lou”, a
dapple grey Thoroughbred therapy
horse, is the greatest center our
quarterback can imagine. John’s
progress has been phenomenal -
now walking short distances without
his walker. There is no doubt
about it, John’s team is driving
down the field again.
BOSSOM BUDDIES - in it together
Sometimes the bond that occurs between rider
and volunteer is so special and strong that it brings
out the best in both. Such is the bond that Zach and
Gerry have. Zach has Morquio Syndrome, a rare
disease that results in severe skeletal defects and
spinal instability. He is an exceptional five year old
who has faced enormous challenges. Therapeutic
riding has provided Zach with many benefits.
Noreen, Zach’s mom, believes, “The physical
benefits for Zach have been key. He has increased
his core, back and leg strength. It has really
increased his endurance and stamina. Zach is so
happy at CTRC. He adores Gerry. He is always so
excited to see him each week.”
Through laughter, consistency,
dedication, and a genuine deep
concern, Gerry has helped build an
environment for Zach to thrive in.
“It is so rewarding,” Gerry says of
his time with Zach. “There is a real
attachment there.” And never was
that attachment more evident than
the last day Zach rode this fall
before heading off for yet another
extensive surgery. Misty eyed,
Gerry knelt down to hug his littlest
buddy good-bye, and Zach, in his
matter of fact voice, looked up and
said simply, “I love you Gerry.”
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